Zach Cregger is set to direct a new Resident Evil movie, scheduled for release in theaters and IMAX on September 18, 2026. This film will not follow the established heroes from the video games but instead focuses on an original character navigating the chaos of Raccoon City during the T-Virus outbreak.
The film stars Austin Abrams as Bryan, a medical courier who finds himself in dire situations. Alongside him are Zach Cherry, Kali Reis, and Paul Walter Hauser. Cregger co-wrote the script with Shay Hatten, aiming to deliver a thrilling and terrifying reinvention of the franchise.
Cregger explained his vision: “My rule for this movie was to try and make a movie that felt like my experience of playing the games.” He emphasized that fans of the video games will find their influence woven throughout the film. The first trailer debuted at CinemaCon, generating excitement among enthusiasts.
Key details about the film:
- The story unfolds during the first night of the T-Virus outbreak.
- The film takes place outside Raccoon City, allowing viewers to experience a different angle of survival horror.
- This is not a direct adaptation of any specific video game but rather an original narrative within the Resident Evil universe.
Cregger’s approach is ambitious—he aims to create a narrative that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. Observers note that this is a bold strategy for a franchise deeply rooted in its extensive lore across films and video games.
As anticipation builds for this unique take on Resident Evil, many are curious how it will perform compared to previous adaptations. There have been seven prior films in the franchise, each contributing to its rich history. With a fresh perspective and original characters, this upcoming release may redefine what fans expect from Resident Evil.